Stickers, Triangles and Breathalysers - The Kit You Need When Driving Abroad

Preparing for a holiday abroad comes with its own challenges. The to-do list can seem daunting - getting travel insurance, packing your suitcases, not to mention remembering your passports.

If you’re planning on travelling to Europe with your car though, there are certain compulsory items you need to make sure you carry in the vehicle. We’ve previously revealed how many motorists do not carry out basic checks to their vehicle, such as checking tyre pressure and coolant levels, before embarking on a long journey, but it’s equally as important to make sure you are carrying the right kit when travelling abroad if you want to avoid getting into hot water with the local authorities.

Read on for more.

Why are travel kits important?

From a health and safety perspective, making sure you have equipment available in case of an accident and/or emergency is crucial, especially if it’s a medical emergency. Some items in the travel kit will also make other road users aware of an accident or medical emergency, which will make getting help more likely and more expedient.

Ultimately, it’s the law in European countries to have safety equipment readily available in your vehicle. Not adhering to the law could land you with a hefty fine, so it’s in your best interests to make sure you're fully prepared prior to travelling.

Let’s take a look at what’s included in a European travel kit.

What should your travel kit include?

The requirements of your car kit will likely vary depending on the European country you’re visiting. Vehicle owners can purchase European Travel Kits by searching online or visiting a motoring store, but make sure to check the driving requirements for the country (or countries) you’re planning to enter to find out if you need to add anything else to your kit.

For example:

• In France you must carry a breathalyser kit in your vehicle (although French authorities cannot currently impose a fine). Further to this, the drink-driving limit is lower in France than in the UK so it’s recommended that you do not drink at all.
• Warning triangles must be carried in many European countries in case a breakdown occurs. However, in Switzerland, the warning triangle must be kept within easy reach of the driver's seat and not in the boot.
• In Spain you must carry two warning triangles to avoid an on-the-spot fine. This is also true in Croatia but only if towing a trailer.
• In Belgium you must carry a fire extinguisher in the vehicle.
• In Austria you must ensure there is a first aid kit in the vehicle.
• Since most of Europe drives on the right, you will need to install headlamp beam converters so that you do not dazzle oncoming traffic. Failure to do so can result in an on-the-spot fine.
• You must display a UK sticker if your number plate features a GB identifier with the Union flag, an EU flag or a national flag of England, Scotland or Wales.

These are just some of the rules and regulations that can be easily overlooked by motorists when travelling abroad, but for a full list of what you’ll need when driving in some of the most visited countries in Europe, have a look at our handy table below:

Need a service before your next trip?

We can’t stress how important it is to have a travel kit in place prior to your holiday.

If you require a service before a long haul journey, get in touch with the experts at your local Kwik Fit centre. Our friendly team will be more than happy to get your car ready for travelling.

In the meantime, read our blog to keep up-to-date with the latest motoring news and trends.